Avataar launches Velocity to auto‑generate product videos from links

Avataar, the Peak XV and Tiger Global‑backed startup, unveiled Velocity—a tool that automatically generates product videos from a simple product link [1]. The service, which builds on the company’s AI‑powered imagery and 3D modeling background, is already being deployed by major brands such as HP, Victoria’s Secret, Lowe’s and Newegg.

Key takeaways

• Velocity creates video clips directly from product URLs without manual editing [1].
• The tool is positioned to cover entire product catalogs, lowering video production costs [1].
• Avataar reports that its models use extensive 3D rendering data to avoid visual glitches and tailor storytelling to each product type [1].
• An API allows brands to integrate Velocity into their own platforms for automated video generation [1].
• Early adopters include HP, Victoria’s Secret, Lowe’s, Newegg, Marina, TVS and Bajaj [1].

From 3D Models to Automated Video Creation

Founded in 2015 by former Microsoft and Deutsche Bank employee Sravanth Aluru, Avataar initially focused on interactive experiences, AI‑enhanced imagery and 3D models for e‑commerce [1]. After raising over $55 million, the company shifted toward video generation, testing a semi‑automated version of its tool with clients in February 2024 [1]. By September 2024, the fully automated Velocity platform entered commercial testing, promising to produce videos at scale without human intervention [1].

Aluru explains that while 3D models typically achieve higher conversion rates than videos, the sheer reach of video content can drive more overall sales [1]. Velocity is designed to fill the gap for products that lack dedicated video budgets, enabling brands to “cover entire catalogs” and improve customer experience through motion and storytelling [1]. The company also emphasizes brand‑safety guardrails that detect and reject inaccurate or inappropriate outputs [1].

Market Context and Future Outlook

Avataar’s launch puts it in competition with larger players such as Amazon and Google, which are also experimenting with AI‑powered video tools for advertising [1]. Investor Amir Konigsberg notes that while many firms are tackling components of the video‑generation pipeline—like background creation or photorealistic rendering—the challenge lies in delivering consistent, high‑quality videos that respect licensing and attribution standards [1]. He adds that recent advances in generative models have finally made scalable AI video production feasible for e‑commerce [1].

Why it matters

Velocity reflects a broader trend of using generative AI to lower the cost barrier of video production, a medium that typically outperforms static images in engagement and conversion. By automating video creation from product links, Avataar aims to democratize access to dynamic content for a wider range of products, potentially reshaping how online retailers present their inventories. As brands adopt the tool and integrate its API, the e‑commerce landscape may see a surge in video‑rich listings, prompting competitors to accelerate their own AI video initiatives.